Endometriosis
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition where endometrial tissue that lines the inside of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. It may cause pain. Women with endometriosis may have difficulty becoming pregnant.
Common symptoms of Endometriosis:
- Painful menstruation. Menstrual cramps, also known as dysmenorrhea, may begin before and extend several days into a menstrual period. You may also experience pain in the lower back and abdomen.
- Painful intercourse. It is common to experience pain during or after sexual intercourse with endometriosis.
- Painful bowel movements or urination during menstrual period.
- Heavy bleeding during menstrual period.
- Infertility.
- Other signs and symptoms include fatigue, diarrhea, constipation, bloating or nausea during menstrual period.
Treatments for Endometriosis:
- Pain relief medications. Pain medications ranges from over-the-counter pain relievers to strong prescription medications. These medications may work if pain or symptoms are mild.
- Hormone therapy. Hormone therapy usually prevents ovulation which may help to slow down or stop the progression of endometriosis and relieve pain. With hormonal therapy, it prevents pregnancy.
- Surgery. Surgery may be recommended to treat severe pain from endometriosis. Laparoscopy is one of the minimally invasive surgical treatment options to remove endometriosis.
- Hysterectomy. In cases of severe endometriosis, hysterectomy is considered the last option. It involves the removal of the uterus alone or together with the ovaries. There will be no possibility of supporting a pregnancy or getting pregnant after hysterectomy.
Speak to your gynaecologist or fertility specialist on the most suitable treatment option for you as some treatments could affect your fertility.
